France: Armed Muslim Teens Released by Court After Stabbing Victim Who Refused to Say 'Long Live Allah'

In Vitry-sur-Seine, Val-de-Marne, two 17-year-old Muslim minors are under investigation for a series of violent robberies committed in late 2024. Among these crimes, a December 2 attack stands out for its religious nature, as the suspects allegedly demanded their victim proclaim, “Long live Allah,” before stabbing him when he refused.

A String of Armed Robberies

The two minors are accused of multiple aggravated robberies committed on November 24, December 2, December 3, and December 15 in the same area. Their actions reportedly involved working in a group, using weapons, and concealing their identities. On Thursday, January 9, they were brought before the Créteil public prosecutor’s office and will face a juvenile court hearing on February 13, 2025, to determine their guilt.

The court has imposed minimal restrictions on the suspects until their hearing next month, including a curfew, a ban on contact with each other or the victims, and a prohibition on possessing weapons. This decision has sparked outrage, as it allows individuals accused of violent, premeditated crimes to remain free in the community. The leniency of these measures raises concerns about public safety and whether the judicial system adequately prioritizes protecting citizens from further harm.

The December 2 Attack

On December 2, the suspects targeted a man they lured to the “Lucien Français” housing project under the false pretense of a business meeting. Upon arrival, the victim was confronted by the suspects, who were armed with a knife. After taking his money, they demanded he declare “Long live Allah” several times. When he refused, they stabbed him in the hand.

The victim later filed a complaint, leading to an investigation by the Val-de-Marne Territorial Security Service (ST94).

Evidence Found

During their arrest, investigators discovered six mobile phones, three knives, a balaclava, and a telescopic baton at the suspects’ residences. These items, believed to have been used in their crimes, along with the victims’ statements, point to a pattern of organized and deliberate criminal activity.

Judicial Proceedings

The public prosecutor has charged the suspects with aggravated theft, citing the use of weapons, their actions as part of a group, and their concealed identities. The judicial system’s approach includes treating them as minors, which limits pretrial restrictions and focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

The trial on February 13 will provide further insight into the suspects’ actions and whether the judicial system will deliver appropriate consequences. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of current measures in addressing and preventing similar crimes remains a matter of public concern. Allowing individuals accused of such calculated and violent crimes to remain in public until trial sends a concerning message about the judicial system’s priorities and leaves the community vulnerable.